Clinics and Events

Relaxation Tapes

It is commonly known that stress can be both a positive as well as a negative
influence in our lives. Recent research has shown us that stress can actually
lead to physical illness. There are many ways that people relieve stress such as
exercising, talking to friends or family, taking a nap, watching a favorite TV
show, having a good laugh; the list is endless. In recent years, more people
have turned to mind/body exercises to help them combat stress. These exercises
can be done whenever you feel you need to relax. You can listen to the exercises
from this Web site or download them to your own computer or iPod. (Audio files
are in .mp3 format.) The exercises were recorded by Kathleen Bryant, Nurse
Practitioner at Health Services..

Breathing

This basic breathing exercise will only take you about 7 minutes.
The tape begins with some simple instructions for you to follow. Even as you are
listening to the instructions, continue to breathe in a slow and relaxed way.
You will be guided through a body scan. You may find that this exercise helps
you to fall asleep more easily. Remember that anytime you try something new, you
need practice before you develop a comfort level with the activity. This is true
with relaxation exercises, as well. Practice when you can, knowing that your
ability to relax will improve with time. Taking the time to practice this
exercise consistently and at least daily can be beneficial. In a matter of weeks
you should be able to command your whole body to become stress free by eliciting
the relaxation response by simple self-instruction. The breathing script is
taken from chapter 11 of The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook, 5th
edition, by Martha Davis, Elizabeth Eshelman and Matthew McKay.

Head & Neck Relaxation

This exercise will take you less than 6 minutes. It can be down while sitting
in a chair, or standing. It is perfect for when you are sitting at the computer,
perhaps working on a paper, and begin to feel tension in your neck and
shoulders.